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Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi

This autographical graphic novel tells the story of a young Iranian girl of educated, middle-class parents coming of age during the Iranian Revolution. The story follows Marji to Vienna, Austria where her parents think she will be safer and free to express herself. However, Marji finds life still restrictive and people too focused on being superficial.

Published by: PantheonRecommended by: Dr. Nathan Taylor

The Poisonwood Bibleby Barbara Kingsolver

Kingsolver tells the story of Nathan Price, an evangelical minister who moves his wife and four daughters to the Belgian Congo in 1959. The story is told from varying viewpoints of the members of the Price family. The clash of cultures is a theme woven throughout the book, as well as an examination of the question: What is really important for survival material items or something else?

Themes: Rhodesian history, colonialism, gender roles A semi-autographical novel by Zimbabwean author Tsitsi Dangarembga, Nervous Conditions tells the story of a Rhodesian (present day Zimbabwe) family in the 1960s. Living in a post-colonial society, the main character Tambu must negotiate her past with her dreams for tomorrow. Tambu seeks to acquire an education, but must overcome obstacles to achieve this goal. The novel speaks to the tension that Tambu feels as it relates to race, class, gender, and cultures outside of her own.

Outcasts United: An American Town, a Refugee Team, and One Woman's Quest to Make a Difference by by Warren St. John

Based on a true story, Warren St. John explores the relationship between a small town near Atlanta, Georgia and a group of refugees recently relocated there. A soccer coach serves as a bridge between the two cultures and helps the young kids and the town acclimate to one another.